Dictionary of Victorian London-Private Concerts

~ sternj2

I found an interest in the music and musicians portion of Lee Jackson’s “Victorian London Dictionary”. Although the article, “concerts” states that music isn’t widely spread throughout England, the article, “private concerts”, states the opposite, vocal and instrumental performances are a large attribute to entertainment especially at evening parties. When hosting parties, the host looks to a professor of music to provide input on which musicians should be hired for the gathering without overpaying for the entertainment. The professor is also expected to pick the music that is to be played at the party; the songs can be charming glees, ballads, duets, and trios.

Controversy over evening gatherings with musical entertainment has risen. Some guests come to listen to the music, whereas other guests come to socialize with other guests. Once a large group of people begin to talk hushing or dirty looks will no longer stop them. When a party is hosted in a larger area with multiple room there is less of a problem with guests talking, the guests who want to listen to the music will stand in the same room as the musicians and listen respectfully and the guests who would prefer to socialize are able to gather in adjoining rooms so there is just a soft murmur of talking that leaks into the room with the music. But if a party is hosted in a smaller area, there is a higher chance of complaints.

It is rude to enter or exit a room while a piece is being played. It is also rude to leave a party before the concert is over unless there is a break for refreshments. Rustling of programs or tapping of fans is the only applause women are supposed to get after a performance, but using the term, “bravo” is unnecessary.

6 thoughts on “Dictionary of Victorian London-Private Concerts”

  1. I agree that it is rude when people are constantly entering and exiting during a performance, since it distracts the performers and the audience. I didn’t realize that there was actually a big controversy with that subject, I figured most people would just ignore an interference during a concert.

  2. I assume that the parties were more about the music than anything else.. I don’t think anyone puts THAT much emphasis on what DJ will be playing at their sweet sixteen these days, it’s not exactly the center of the party.

  3. I think it’s so interesting how even in the 1800’s people were doing this.
    I’ve noticed that when I go to concerts in smaller venues, there will be people who give dirty looks to other people who are speaking while music is being played. I would never think that this was a problem since the 1800’s, how interesting!

  4. This was so interesting! As a person who loves music and attends concerts as much as my wallet can afford, I find it fascinating that issues like people talking during a set was such an issue and even today quite annoying, not much has change!

  5. I think it’s so interesting how even in the 1800’s people were doing this.
    I’ve noticed that when I go to concerts in smaller venues, there will be people who give dirty looks to other people who are speaking while music is being played. I would never think that this was a problem since the 1800’s, how interesting!!!!!!!!!!

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